Florida Ministers to Create Center for Homeless HIV/AIDS Patients

From CDC National Prevention Information Network

November 8, 2002

Phil Polson and Paul Ciucci say they are on a mission from
God. They hope to take possession of the former Cabot Point
assisted living facility in Bradenton, Fla., and convert it, by
the first of the year, into transitional housing for 78 of the
area's homeless, specifically for those with HIV/AIDS.

The two, who are affiliated with the Jubilee Church of the
Rock, say they have lined up sponsors to pay the $12,000 monthly
rent for the first year. And they believe they have the financing
to buy the building for $1.75 million in 2004. What they need now
is a $48,000 down payment. Twelve businesses have pledged $1,000
a month toward rent, and four Manatee County doctors have
volunteered to run a general care clinic, Polson said. "The rooms
are completely furnished," he said. "All we need to do is move
in."

Plans call for using one wing of the facility for homeless
people with HIV/AIDS. The other two wings will be reserved for
homeless individuals or families. The homeless will be able to
stay at the facility for six months rent-free. Counselors will
help them hone job skills and find employment. Once they are
earning money, a portion of their paychecks will be placed in
their own escrow accounts to build up funds to cover down
payments for permanent housing. Polson and Ciucci said they will
coordinate medical care for HIV/AIDS residents through a clinic
operated by Manatee County Rural Health Services.

The two pastors want to pattern their AIDS housing program
on a model developed by Ray Highfield of His Touch HIV/AIDS
Ministries, an international organization. HIV/AIDS education and
ministry is a top priority for most of the congregation: Nearly
half of the 100 members have been trained by Manatee County
Health Department to perform HIV/AIDS testing and counseling.

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